Fast access to a data resource update in a blockchain network

ABSTRACT

A method for fast access to a data resource in a blockchain network is provided. The method includes opening a dedicated socket in a server to receive a datum from a data source and authenticating a signature of the data source to verify that the data source is a reliable data source. The method also includes storing the data in a dedicated memory space in the server, allowing a blockchain application to access the data in the dedicated memory space using a function that has accessibility to the dedicated memory space, and writing the data in a blockchain block when a block producer reads the data from the blockchain application. A system and a non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions to perform the above method are also provided.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure generally relates to access and availability ofupdated data in blockchain networks. More specifically, the presentdisclosure relates to a fast access to updated data uploaded by atrusted source to a dedicated and secured memory space in a blockchainnetwork prior to storage of the data in an encrypted block in theblockchain network.

Description of the Related Art

Blockchain networks are widely used for ensuring secured and reliabledata transactions. However, the encryption steps involved in writingblocks with new, updated data to a blockchain network prohibits theimplementation of fast-pace information sources in a blockchain network,especially when the updates include time-sensitive data that may becomeobsolete before the encryption steps are completed.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-implementedmethod is described for allowing fast access to a data resource update.The computer-implemented method includes opening a dedicated socket in aserver to receive a datum from a data source and authenticating asignature of the data source to verify that the data source is areliable data source. The computer-implemented method also includesstoring the data in a dedicated memory space in the server, allowing ablockchain application to access the data in the dedicated memory spaceusing a function that has accessibility to the dedicated memory space,and writing the data in a blockchain block when a block producer readsthe data from the blockchain application.

According to one embodiment, a system is described that includes one ormore processors and a memory coupled with the one or more processors,the memory including instructions that, when executed by the one or moreprocessors, cause the one or more processors to open a dedicated socketin a server to receive a datum from a data source, to authenticate asignature of the data source to verify that the data source is areliable data source, and to store the data in a dedicated memory spacein the server. In some embodiments, the one or more processors executeinstructions to allow a blockchain application to access the data in thededicated memory space using a function that has accessibility to thededicated memory space, and to write the data in a blockchain block whena block producer reads the data from the blockchain application.

According to one embodiment, a non-transitory, machine-readable mediumis described that includes instructions, which when executed by one ormore processors, cause a computer to perform a method that includesopening a dedicated socket in a server to receive a datum from a datasource. The method also includes authenticating a signature of the datasource to verify that the data source is a reliable data source, andstoring the data in a dedicated memory space in the server. The methodalso includes allowing a blockchain application to access the data inthe dedicated memory space using a function that has accessibility tothe dedicated memory space, and writing the data in a blockchain blockwhen a block producer reads the data from the blockchain application.

It is understood that other configurations of the subject technologywill become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from thefollowing detailed description, wherein various configurations of thesubject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. Aswill be realized, the subject technology is capable of other anddifferent configurations and its several details are capable ofmodification in various other respects, all without departing from thescope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the drawings and detaileddescription are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not asrestrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide furtherunderstanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of thisspecification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and together with thedescription serve to explain the principles of the disclosedembodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example architecture suitable for fast access to adata resource update in a blockchain network, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example server and client fromthe architecture of FIG. 1, according to certain aspects of thedisclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a blockchain network with one or more block producerscommunicatively coupled to an information provider, and to a serverhosting a blockchain application, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method for storing a dataresource update in a dedicated memory space in a blockchain network forfast access, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method for preparing andproviding a data packet with updated information to a dedicated space ina blockchain network, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method for retrievingupdated information from a dedicated space in a blockchain network,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method for replaying asmart contract having access to updated data values provided by areliable data source in a blockchain network, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer system withwhich the client and server of FIGS. 1 and 2 and the methods of FIGS.4-7 can be implemented.

In the figures, elements and steps denoted by the same or similarreference numerals are associated with the same or similar elements andsteps, unless indicated otherwise.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are setforth to provide a full understanding of the present disclosure. It willbe apparent, however, to one ordinarily skilled in the art, thatembodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some ofthese specific details. In other instances, well-known structures andtechniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure thedisclosure.

General Overview

In blockchain networks, to access information on a blockchain, ablockchain producer or client executes a ‘write’ action (e.g., from ablockchain application) that is subject to latency and resourceconsumption charges. However, for some blockchain applications (e.g.,weather and stock market price feeds) whose values may be updatedfrequently, and read less often, a faster data storing scheme may bedesirable to have an accurate account of the state of a rapidly changingvariable, and yet reap the benefits of a secure and immutable ledger inthe blockchain.

The disclosed system addresses this problem specifically arising in therealm of computer technology by providing a solution also rooted incomputer technology, namely, opening a secondary mechanism forinformation providers (e.g., reliable data sources) to store informationin a random access memory (RAM), or any other low-latency access storagein the block producer. This storage can be accessed via a blockchainapplication, on demand, with low latency. In some embodiments, theinformation provider's data and lineage (e.g., metadata and history)would be validated when it is encrypted and stored in a block in theblockchain. For example, in some embodiments, the stock price,timestamp, and the information provider's internal reference would bestored in the blockchain. In some embodiments, a similar system may beimplemented on a block producer that uses other low-latency techniquesavailable today. Additionally, some embodiments include a smart contractaccessing the value of the data at a later time (including metadatashowing lineage). Accordingly, at this point, the data may be written inthe blockchain record through the normal mechanisms of irreversibility(e.g., encryption) by a ‘write’ action from the blockchain application.

The subject system provides several advantages, including accessibilityto rapidly updated data by a selected blockchain application, beforethis data is irreversibly placed in a ledger of the blockchain withaccess from any block producer having the required public key.

Example System Architecture

FIG. 1 illustrates an example architecture 100 for a blockchain networksuitable for practicing some implementations of the disclosure.Architecture 100 includes servers 130 and client devices 110 coupledover a network 150. One of the many servers 130 is configured to host amemory, including instructions which, when executed by a processor,cause the server 130 to perform at least some of the steps in methods asdisclosed herein. In some embodiments, architecture 100 is configured tostore data in a blockchain database 152. Blockchain database 152 may beaccessed by block producers in servers 130, and other authorized clientsof the blockchain network, who may be users of client devices 110.Servers 130 may also include service providers that collect data frommultiple sources to create an immutable register (e.g., a smartcontract) in blockchain database 152. Accordingly, service providers mayhost blockchain applications running in virtual machine containerswithin a block producer. In addition, servers 130 may includeinformation providers that collect time-sensitive information for theblockchain applications. In some embodiments, the information providermay be a reliable data source that uses a verifiable signature acrossthe blockchain network. The verifiable signature guarantees the identityof the data source and the trustworthiness of the data provided.

Servers 130 may include any device having an appropriate processor,memory, and communications capability for hosting and accessingblockchain database 152, and a virtual machine container to run ablockchain application. The blockchain application may be accessible byvarious clients 110 over network 150. In some embodiments, servers 130may include an encryption tool configured to handle public and privatekeys to access blockchain database 152. Client devices 110 may include,for example, desktop computers, mobile computers, tablet computers(e.g., including e-book readers), mobile devices (e.g., a smartphone orPDA), or any other devices having appropriate processor, memory, andcommunications capabilities for accessing the blockchain tool in one ormore of servers 130, and blockchain database 152. Network 150 caninclude, for example, any one or more of a local area network (LAN), awide area network (WAN), the Internet, and the like. Further, network150 can include, but is not limited to, any one or more of the followingnetwork topologies, including a bus network, a star network, a ringnetwork, a mesh network, a star-bus network, tree or hierarchicalnetwork, and the like.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram 200 illustrating an example server 130, clientdevice 110, and blockchain database 152 in the architecture 100 of FIG.1, according to certain aspects of the disclosure. Client device 110 andserver 130 are communicatively coupled over network 150 via respectivecommunications modules 218-1 and 218-2 (hereinafter, collectivelyreferred to as “communications modules 218”). Communications modules 218are configured to interface with network 150 to send and receiveinformation, such as data, requests, responses, and commands to otherdevices on the network. Communications modules 218 can be, for example,modems, Ethernet cards, or any port that receives information from anexternal device. Communications modules 218 may include hardware andsoftware to handle data encryption, and direct access to a virtualmachine container (e.g., an ‘action’ port for a blockchain application),or direct access to a low latency memory circuit, such as a RAM circuit.

Client device 110 may be coupled with an input device 214 and with anoutput device 216. Input device 214 may include a keyboard, a mouse, apointer, or even a touch-screen display that a consumer may use tointeract with client device 110. Likewise, output device 216 may includea display and a speaker with which the consumer may retrieve resultsfrom client device 110. Client device 110 may also include a processor212-1, configured to execute instructions stored in a memory 220-1, andto cause client device 110 to perform at least some of the steps inmethods consistent with the present disclosure. Memory 220-1 may furtherinclude an application 222, including specific instructions which, whenexecuted by processor 212-1, cause a blockchain tool 242 from server 130to display information in output device 216. In that regard, application222 may include a smart contract application, or any other blockchainapplication as disclosed herein. Client device 110 may provide a datapacket 227-1 to server 130, via network 150. Likewise, server 130 mayprovide a data packet 227-2 to client device 110. Hereinafter, datapackets 227-1 and 227-2 will be referred to, collectively, as “datapackets 227.”

Server 130 includes a memory 220-2, a processor 212-2, andcommunications module 218-2. Processor 212-2 is configured to executeinstructions, such as instructions physically coded into processor212-2, instructions received from software in memory 220-2, or acombination of both. Memory 220-2 includes a virtual machine 240 whereina blockchain tool 242 is installed. Memory 220-2 may also include asignature verification tool 244 and a public-key validation tool 246,configured to validate, authenticate, and verify access from differentclient devices 110 and servers 130 to blockchain database 152.Accordingly, server 130 may verify and apply a signature to a data blockbefore storing in blockchain database 152. Hereinafter, processors 212-1and 212-2 will be collectively referred to as “processors 212,” andmemories 220-1 and 220-2 will be collectively referred to as “memories220.” In some embodiments, memories 220 may include low latencymemories, such as RAM (dynamic-RAM—DRAM-, or static RAM—SRAM-) that canbe accessed quickly from an external device via a plugin socket incommunications modules 218.

Data packets 227 may include time-sensitive information (e.g., timestamps and other metadata) and data value updates (e.g., stock marketprices, weather conditions, sensor measurements, and the like). In someembodiments, data packets 227 may include encryption data and passwords,such as public keys and private keys. Moreover, in some embodiments,data packets 227 may include data signed by an authorized client orserver in the blockchain network and already stored in memories 220. Insome embodiments, data packets 227 may include a “blob” with multiplepasswords, each password associated with a time-sensitive value. When adata packet or data update is accessed by a block producer in theblockchain network, it is saved as a signed/verified block 250 inblockchain database 152. In some embodiments, signed block 250 mayinclude other action results from other external client devices 110,including various signatures and mechanisms to make it cryptographicallysecure. Signed block 250 may then be sent from server 130 to other blockproducers or client devices where it could be re-run (using thedecrypted data) by a blockchain application.

FIG. 3 illustrates a blockchain network 300 with one or more blockproducers 310C-1, 310C-2, and 310C-3 (hereinafter, collectively referredto as “block producers 310C”), communicatively coupled to an informationprovider 310A, and to a server 310B hosting a blockchain tool 342 inblock producer 310C-1, according to some embodiments. Informationprovider 310A may be coupled with block producer 310C-1 via acommunications port 318-1 to a low latency memory device 320-1 (e.g., aRAM, a DRAM, an SRAM, and the like) Likewise, block producer 310C-2 and310C-3 may have access to the fast update data from information provider310A in low latency memory device 320-1. In that regard, block producers310C-2 and 310C-3 may be a selected group of block producers 310C thatmay access the fast update data before this is irreversibly stored in ablockchain database by block producer 310C-1.

Block producer 310C-1 may have a virtual memory space 340 whereinblockchain tool 342 is installed. A state variable 320-2 may also bestored in a memory device in blockchain producer 310C-1. Updated data isstored in low latency memory device 320-1 and state variable 320-2 maybe provided to blockchain tool 342 via an action port 318-2, to runproperly.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method 400 for storing adata resource update in a dedicated memory space in a blockchain networkfor fast access, according to some embodiments. One or more of the stepsin method 400 may be at least partially performed by a processorexecuting commands stored in a memory, the processor and memory beingpart of a client device, a server, or a blockchain databasecommunicatively coupled with each other via a network (e.g., processors212, memories 220, client devices 110, servers 130, network 150, andblockchain database 152). In some embodiments, the memory may include avirtual machine having a blockchain tool hosting a blockchainapplication in the client device, and the server may be a block producercoupled to a blockchain database, as disclosed herein (e.g., virtualmachine 240, blockchain tool 242, and blockchain database 152). In someembodiments, the blockchain application may include a smart contractapplication. The memory may also include an encryption tool having asignature verification tool and a public-key validation tool to verifyaccess to the blockchain tool and the blockchain database to otherservers and clients (e.g., signature verification tool 244 andpublic-key validation tool 246). In some embodiments, methods consistentwith the present disclosure may include one or more steps from method400 performed in a different order, at the same time, simultaneously,quasi-simultaneously, or overlapping in time.

Step 402 includes opening a dedicated socket in a server to receive adatum from a data source. The server may include a block producer havinga virtual machine running a blockchain application hosted by theblockchain tool in an external server. In some embodiments, thededicated socket may include a dedicated port in the communicationsmodule of the server, coupled to a low latency memory in the blockproducer. In some embodiments, step 402 includes hosting the blockchainapplication in a virtual machine in the server, wherein the blockchainapplication is operated through an action port communicating the serverwith a remote server providing a smart contract to the block producer.In some embodiments, step 402 includes calling a special function fromthe blockchain application to access a state variable in a blockproducer, wherein the special function is configured with an identifierto authenticate the data source.

Step 404 includes authenticating a signature of the data source toverify that the data source is a reliable data source. In someembodiments, step 404 may include decrypting the data using a privatekey.

Step 406 includes storing the data in a dedicated memory space in theserver. The dedicated memory space may include a low latency memorydevice such as a RAM circuit (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, and the like). In someembodiments, step 406 includes updating the signature of the data sourcewith the data, in the dedicated memory space.

Step 408 includes allowing a blockchain application to access the datain the dedicated memory space using a function that has accessibility tothe dedicated memory space. In some embodiments, step 408 includesallowing other block producers to access the data in the low latencymemory device via the dedicated socket. In some embodiments, the otherblock producers accessing the data in the low latency memory device maybe selected via a password or encryption key, wherein the password orencryption key may be time sensitive. In some embodiments, step 408includes encrypting the data prior to storing in the dedicated memoryspace with a time-dependent encryption key and providing thetime-dependent encryption key to the blockchain application or to theblock producer when the block producer is selected by the data source.In some embodiments, step 408 includes retrieving an updated value of astate variable from the dedicated memory space.

Step 410 includes writing the data in a blockchain block when a blockproducer reads the data from the blockchain application. In someembodiments, step 410 further includes receiving a data update from thedata source in the dedicated socket before writing the data in a blockin the blockchain. In some embodiments, step 410 further includesirreversibly encrypting the data in the blockchain block.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method 500 for preparingand providing a data packet with updated information to a dedicatedspace in a blockchain network, according to some embodiments. One ormore of the steps in method 500 may be at least partially performed by aprocessor executing commands stored in a memory, the processor andmemory being part of a client device, a server, or a blockchain databasecommunicatively coupled with each other via a network (e.g., processors212, memories 220, client devices 110, servers 130, network 150, andblockchain database 152). In some embodiments, the memory may include avirtual machine having a blockchain tool hosting a blockchainapplication in the client device, and the server may be a block producercoupled to a blockchain database, as disclosed herein (e.g., virtualmachine 240, blockchain tool 242, and blockchain database 152). In someembodiments, the blockchain application may include a smart contractapplication. The memory may also include an encryption tool having asignature verification tool and a public-key validation tool to verifyaccess to the blockchain tool and the blockchain database to otherservers and clients (e.g., signature verification tool 244 andpublic-key validation tool 246). In some embodiments, methods consistentwith the present disclosure may include one or more steps from method500 performed in a different order, at the same time, simultaneously,quasi-simultaneously, or overlapping in time.

Step 502 includes retrieving time-sensitive information from a computernetwork. The computer network may be a specialized network for providingtime-sensitive data, e.g., news, weather, stock prices, or a distributedsensor network.

Step 504 includes forming a data packet including the time-sensitiveinformation encrypted with a first private key and a smart contract keyaccessible to a selected smart contract.

Step 506 includes encrypting the data packet with a public key from ablock producer.

Step 508 includes providing the data packet to the block producer.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method 600 for retrievingupdated information from a dedicated space in a blockchain network,according to some embodiments. One or more of the steps in method 600may be at least partially performed by a processor executing commandsstored in a memory, the processor and memory being part of a clientdevice, a server, or a blockchain database communicatively coupled witheach other via a network (e.g., processors 212, memories 220, clientdevices 110, servers 130, network 150, and blockchain database 152). Insome embodiments, the memory may include a virtual machine having ablockchain tool hosting a blockchain application in the client device,and the server may be a block producer coupled to a blockchain database,as disclosed herein (e.g., virtual machine 240, blockchain tool 242, andblockchain database 152). In some embodiments, the blockchainapplication may include a smart contract application. The memory mayalso include an encryption tool having a signature verification tool anda public-key validation tool to verify access to the blockchain tool andthe blockchain database to other servers and clients (e.g., signatureverification tool 244 and public-key validation tool 246). In someembodiments, methods consistent with the present disclosure may includeone or more steps from method 600 performed in a different order, at thesame time, simultaneously, quasi-simultaneously, or overlapping in time.

Step 602 includes calling a special function to access a state variablein a block producer, the special function configured with an identifierfor a reliable data source.

Step 604 includes retrieving an updated value of the state variable froma dedicated memory space in the block producer using the specialfunction.

Step 606 includes storing the updated value of the state variable and ametadata associated with the updated value in an actions log in theblock producer.

Step 608 includes writing the actions log from the block producer in theblockchain database.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating steps in a method 700 for replayinga smart contract having access to updated data values provided by areliable data source in a blockchain network, according to someembodiments. One or more of the steps in method 700 may be at leastpartially performed by a processor executing commands stored in amemory, the processor and memory being part of a client device, aserver, or a blockchain database communicatively coupled with each othervia a network (e.g., processors 212, memories 220, client devices 110,servers 130, network 150, and blockchain database 152). In someembodiments, the memory may include a virtual machine having ablockchain tool hosting a blockchain application in the client device,and the server may be a block producer coupled to a blockchain database,as disclosed herein (e.g., virtual machine 240, blockchain tool 242, andblockchain database 152). In some embodiments, the blockchainapplication may include a smart contract application. The memory mayalso include an encryption tool having a signature verification tool anda public-key validation tool to verify access to the blockchain tool andthe blockchain database to other servers and clients (e.g., signatureverification tool 244 and public-key validation tool 246). In someembodiments, methods consistent with the present disclosure may includeone or more steps from method 700 performed in a different order, at thesame time, simultaneously, quasi-simultaneously, or overlapping in time.

Step 702 includes accessing, from a block producer, the blockchainapplication in a blockchain network, wherein the blockchain applicationhas access to an updated value of a state variable provided by a datasource.

Step 704 includes replaying the blockchain application to retrieve anupdated value of a state variable.

Hardware Overview

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer system 800with which the client and server of FIGS. 1 and 2 and the methods ofFIGS. 4-7 can be implemented. In certain aspects, the computer system800 may be implemented using hardware or a combination of software andhardware, either in a dedicated server, or integrated into anotherentity, or distributed across multiple entities.

Computer system 800 (e.g., client device 110 and server 130) includes abus 808 or other communication mechanism for communicating information,and a processor 802 (e.g., processors 212) coupled with bus 808 forprocessing information. By way of example, the computer system 800 maybe implemented with one or more processors 802. Processor 802 may be ageneral-purpose microprocessor, a microcontroller, a Digital SignalProcessor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), aField Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD),a controller, a state machine, gated logic, discrete hardwarecomponents, or any other suitable entity that can perform calculationsor other manipulations of information.

Computer system 800 can include, in addition to hardware, code thatcreates an execution environment for the computer program in question,e.g., code that constitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, adatabase management system, an operating system, or a combination of oneor more of them stored in an included memory 804 (e.g., memories 220),such as a Random Access Memory (RAM), a flash memory, a Read-Only Memory(ROM), a Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM), an Erasable PROM (EPROM),registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD, or any othersuitable storage device, coupled with bus 808 for storing informationand instructions to be executed by processor 802. The processor 802 andthe memory 804 can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, specialpurpose logic circuitry.

The instructions may be stored in the memory 804 and implemented in oneor more computer program products, e.g., one or more modules of computerprogram instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium for executionby, or to control the operation of, the computer system 800, andaccording to any method well known to those of skill in the art,including, but not limited to, computer languages such as data-orientedlanguages (e.g., SQL, dBase), system languages (e.g., C, Objective-C,C++, Assembly), architectural languages (e.g., Java, .NET), andapplication languages (e.g., PHP, Ruby, Perl, Python). Instructions mayalso be implemented in computer languages such as array languages,aspect-oriented languages, assembly languages, authoring languages,command line interface languages, compiled languages, concurrentlanguages, curly-bracket languages, dataflow languages, data-structuredlanguages, declarative languages, esoteric languages, extensionlanguages, fourth-generation languages, functional languages,interactive mode languages, interpreted languages, iterative languages,list-based languages, little languages, logic-based languages, machinelanguages, macro languages, metaprogramming languages, multiparadigmlanguages, numerical analysis, non-English-based languages,object-oriented class-based languages, object-oriented prototype-basedlanguages, off-side rule languages, procedural languages, reflectivelanguages, rule-based languages, scripting languages, stack-basedlanguages, synchronous languages, syntax handling languages, visuallanguages, wirth languages, and xml-based languages. Memory 804 may alsobe used for storing temporary variable or other intermediate informationduring execution of instructions to be executed by processor 802.

A computer program as discussed herein does not necessarily correspondto a file in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of afile that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts storedin a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to theprogram in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files thatstore one or more modules, subprograms, or portions of code). A computerprogram can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiplecomputers that are located at one site or distributed across multiplesites and intercoupled by a communication network. The processes andlogic flows described in this specification can be performed by one ormore programmable processors executing one or more computer programs toperform functions by operating on input data and generating output.

Computer system 800 further includes a data storage device 806 such as amagnetic disk or optical disk, coupled with bus 808 for storinginformation and instructions. Computer system 800 may be coupled viainput/output module 810 to various devices. Input/output module 810 canbe any input/output module. Exemplary input/output modules 810 includedata ports such as USB ports. The input/output module 810 is configuredto connect to a communications module 812. Exemplary communicationsmodules 812 (e.g., communications modules 218) include networkinginterface cards, such as Ethernet cards and modems. In certain aspects,input/output module 810 is configured to connect to a plurality ofdevices, such as an input device 814 (e.g., input device 214) and/or anoutput device 816 (e.g., output device 216). Exemplary input devices 814include a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball,by which a consumer can provide input to the computer system 800. Otherkinds of input devices 814 can be used to provide for interaction with aconsumer as well, such as a tactile input device, visual input device,audio input device, or brain-computer interface device. For example,feedback provided to the consumer can be any form of sensory feedback,e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and inputfrom the consumer can be received in any form, including acoustic,speech, tactile, or brain wave input. Exemplary output devices 816include display devices, such as an LCD (liquid crystal display)monitor, for displaying information to the consumer.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the client device 110and server 130 can be implemented using a computer system 800 inresponse to processor 802 executing one or more sequences of one or moreinstructions contained in memory 804. Such instructions may be read intomemory 804 from another machine-readable medium, such as data storagedevice 806. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in mainmemory 804 causes processor 802 to perform the process steps describedherein. One or more processors in a multi-processing arrangement mayalso be employed to execute the sequences of instructions contained inmemory 804. In alternative aspects, hard-wired circuitry may be used inplace of or in combination with software instructions to implementvarious aspects of the present disclosure. Thus, aspects of the presentdisclosure are not limited to any specific combination of hardwarecircuitry and software.

Various aspects of the subject matter described in this specificationcan be implemented in a computing system that includes a back endcomponent, e.g., a data server, or that includes a middleware component,e.g., an application server, or that includes a front end component,e.g., a client computer having a graphical consumer interface or a Webbrowser through which a consumer can interact with an implementation ofthe subject matter described in this specification, or any combinationof one or more such back end, middleware, or front end components. Thecomponents of the system can be intercoupled by any form or medium ofdigital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Thecommunication network (e.g., network 150) can include, for example, anyone or more of a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, and the like. Further, thecommunication network can include, but is not limited to, for example,any one or more of the following network topologies, including a busnetwork, a star network, a ring network, a mesh network, a star-busnetwork, tree or hierarchical network, or the like. The communicationsmodules can be, for example, modems or Ethernet cards.

Computer system 800 can include clients and servers. A client and serverare generally remote from each other and typically interact through acommunication network. The relationship of client and server arises byvirtue of computer programs running on the respective computers andhaving a client-server relationship to each other. Computer system 800can be, for example, and without limitation, a desktop computer, laptopcomputer, or tablet computer. Computer system 800 can also be embeddedin another device, for example, and without limitation, a mobiletelephone, a PDA, a mobile audio player, a Global Positioning System(GPS) receiver, a video game console, and/or a television set top box.

The term “machine-readable storage medium” or “computer-readable medium”as used herein refers to any medium or media that participates inproviding instructions to processor 802 for execution. Such a medium maytake many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media,volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, forexample, optical or magnetic disks, such as data storage device 806.Volatile media include dynamic memory, such as memory 804. Transmissionmedia include coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics, includingthe wires forming bus 808. Common forms of machine-readable mediainclude, for example, floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetictape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other opticalmedium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patternsof holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH EPROM, any other memory chipor cartridge, or any other medium from which a computer can read. Themachine-readable storage medium can be a machine-readable storagedevice, a machine-readable storage substrate, a memory device, acomposition of matter affecting a machine-readable propagated signal, ora combination of one or more of them.

To illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, itemssuch as the various illustrative blocks, modules, components, methods,operations, instructions, and algorithms have been described generallyin terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality isimplemented as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware andsoftware depends upon the particular application and design constraintsimposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement thedescribed functionality in varying ways for each particular application.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a series ofitems, with the terms “and” or “or” to separate any of the items,modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list (e.g.,each item). The phrase “at least one of” does not require selection ofat least one item; rather, the phrase allows a meaning that includes atleast one of any one of the items, and/or at least one of anycombination of the items, and/or at least one of each of the items. Byway of example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at leastone of A, B, or C” each refer to only A, only B, or only C; anycombination of A, B, and C; and/or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example,instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as“exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other embodiments. Phrases such as an aspect, theaspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, animplementation, the implementation, another implementation, someimplementations, one or more implementations, an embodiment, theembodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or moreembodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration,some configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology,the disclosure, the present disclosure, and other variations thereof andalike are for convenience and do not imply that a disclosure relating tosuch phrase(s) is essential to the subject technology or that suchdisclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Adisclosure relating to such phrase(s) may apply to all configurations,or one or more configurations. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s)may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect or someaspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa, and thisapplies similarly to other foregoing phrases.

A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “oneand only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” Theterm “some” refers to one or more. Underlined and/or italicized headingsand subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subjecttechnology, and are not referred to in connection with theinterpretation of the description of the subject technology. Relationalterms such as first and second and the like may be used to distinguishone entity or action from another without necessarily requiring orimplying any actual such relationship or order between such entities oractions. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements ofthe various configurations described throughout this disclosure that areknown or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the artare expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to beencompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing disclosedherein is intended to be dedicated to the public, regardless of whethersuch disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description. Noclause element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using thephrase “means for” or, in the case of a method clause, the element isrecited using the phrase “step for.”

While this specification contains many specifics, these should not beconstrued as limitations on the scope of what may be described, butrather as descriptions of particular implementations of the subjectmatter. Certain features that are described in this specification in thecontext of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combinationin a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are describedin the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented inmultiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination.Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certaincombinations and even initially described as such, one or more featuresfrom a described combination can in some cases be excised from thecombination, and the described combination may be directed to asubcombination or variation of a subcombination.

The subject matter of this specification has been described in terms ofparticular aspects, but other aspects can be implemented and are withinthe scope of the following clauses. For example, while operations aredepicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not beunderstood as requiring that such operations be performed in theparticular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustratedoperations be performed, to achieve desirable results. The actionsrecited in the clauses can be performed in a different order and stillachieve desirable results. As one example, the processes depicted in theaccompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular ordershown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In certaincircumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.Moreover, the separation of various system components in the aspectsdescribed above should not be understood as requiring such separation inall aspects, and it should be understood that the described programcomponents and systems can generally be integrated together in a singlesoftware product or packaged into multiple software products.

The title, background, brief description of the drawings, abstract, anddrawings are hereby incorporated into the disclosure and are provided asillustrative examples of the disclosure, not as restrictivedescriptions. It is submitted with the understanding that they will notbe used to limit the scope or meaning of the clauses. In addition, inthe detailed description, it can be seen that the description providesillustrative examples and the various features are grouped together invarious implementations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure.The method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting anintention that the described subject matter requires more features thanare expressly recited in each clause. Rather, as the clauses reflect,inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a singledisclosed configuration or operation. The clauses are herebyincorporated into the detailed description, with each clause standing onits own as a separately described subject matter.

The clauses are not intended to be limited to the aspects describedherein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with thelanguage clauses and to encompass all legal equivalents.Notwithstanding, none of the clauses are intended to embrace subjectmatter that fails to satisfy the requirements of the applicable patentlaw, nor should they be interpreted in such a way.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method, comprising:opening a dedicated socket in a server to receive a datum from a datasource; authenticating a signature of the data source to verify that thedata source is a reliable data source; storing, in a dedicated memoryspace in the server, a data from the data source; allowing a blockchainapplication to access the data in the dedicated memory space using afunction that has accessibility to the dedicated memory space; writingthe data in a blockchain block when a block producer reads the data fromthe blockchain application; and encrypting the data prior to storing inthe dedicated memory space with a time-dependent encryption key andproviding the time-dependent encryption key to the block producer whenthe block producer is selected by the data source.
 2. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein opening a dedicatedsocket in a server to receive a datum from the data source comprisescalling a special function from the blockchain application to access astate variable in a block producer, wherein the special function isconfigured with an identifier to authenticate the data source.
 3. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein storing the data in adedicated memory space in the server comprises storing the data in a lowlatency memory circuit.
 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1,wherein allowing a blockchain application to access the data in thededicated memory space comprises retrieving an updated value of a statevariable from the dedicated memory space.
 5. The computer-implementedmethod of claim 1, further comprising encrypting the data prior tostoring in the dedicated memory space with a time-dependent encryptionkey and providing the time-dependent encryption key to the blockchainapplication.
 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, furthercomprising hosting the blockchain application in a virtual machine inthe server, wherein the blockchain application is operated through anaction port communicating the server with a remote server providing asmart contract to the block producer.
 7. The computer-implemented methodof claim 1, further comprising receiving a data update from the datasource in the dedicated socket before writing the data in a blockchainblock.
 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein writingthe data in a blockchain block comprises irreversibly encrypting thedata in the blockchain block.
 9. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 1, further comprising replaying the blockchain application toretrieve an updated value of a state variable.
 10. A system, comprising:a memory storing instructions; and one or more processors configured toexecute the instructions to: open a dedicated socket in a server toreceive a datum from a data source; authenticate a signature of the datasource to verify that the data source is a reliable data source; store adata in a dedicated memory space in the server, from the data source;allow a blockchain application to access the data in the dedicatedmemory space using a function that has accessibility to the dedicatedmemory space; and write the data in a blockchain block when a blockproducer reads the data from the blockchain application, wherein openinga dedicated socket in a server to receive a datum from the data sourcecomprises calling a special function from the blockchain application toaccess a state variable in a block producer, wherein the specialfunction is configured with an identifier to authenticate the datasource; and encrypt the data prior to storing in the dedicated memoryspace with a time-dependent encryption key and to provide thetime-dependent encryption key to the block producer when the blockproducer is selected by the data source.
 11. The system of claim 10,wherein to store the data in a dedicated memory space in the server theone or more processors execute instructions to store the data in a lowlatency memory circuit.
 12. The system of claim 10, wherein to allow ablockchain application to access the data in the dedicated memory spacethe one or more processors execute instructions to retrieve an updatedvalue of a state variable from the dedicated memory space.
 13. Thesystem of claim 10, wherein the one or more processors further executeinstructions to encrypt the data prior to storing in the dedicatedmemory space with a time-dependent encryption key and to provide thetime-dependent encryption key to the blockchain application.
 14. Thesystem of claim 10, wherein the one or more processors further executeinstructions to host the blockchain application in a virtual machine inthe server, wherein the blockchain application is operated through anaction port communicating the server with a remote server providing asmart contract to the block producer.
 15. The system of claim 10,wherein the one or more processors further execute instructions toreceive a datum update from the data source in the dedicated socketbefore writing the data in a blockchain block.
 16. A non-transitory,computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by aprocessor, cause a computer to perform a method, the method comprising:opening a dedicated socket in a server to receive a datum from a datasource; authenticating a signature of the data source to verify that thedata source is a reliable data source; storing a data in a dedicatedmemory space in the server, form the data source; allowing a blockchainapplication to access the data in the dedicated memory space using afunction that has accessibility to the dedicated memory space; andwriting the data in a blockchain block when a block producer reads thedata from the blockchain application, wherein: opening a dedicatedsocket in a server to receive a datum from the data source comprisescalling a special function from the blockchain application to access astate variable in a block producer, wherein the special function isconfigured with an identifier to authenticate the data source, storingthe data in a dedicated memory space in the server comprises storing thedata in a low latency memory circuit; and encrypting the data prior tostoring in the dedicated memory space with a time-dependent encryptionkey and providing the time-dependent encryption key to the blockproducer when the block producer is selected by the data source.
 17. Thenon-transitory, computer-readable medium of claim 16 wherein, in themethod, allowing a blockchain application to access the data in thededicated memory space comprises retrieving an updated value of a statevariable from the dedicated memory space.
 18. The non-transitory,computer-readable medium of claim 16, wherein the method furthercomprises encrypting the data prior to storing in the dedicated memoryspace with a time-dependent encryption key and providing thetime-dependent encryption key to the blockchain application.